Consumer Reports has created a guide to a greener kitchen. For example, you can find appliances like refrigerators, ranges and dishwashers that use less energy. Energy-efficient lighting is also a hot topic, as CFLs and LEDs edge out the old energy-hogging incandescents.
Many paints on the market now have lower or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which have been linked to respiratory problems. Some materials used for countertops, flooring and cabinets can also contain unhealthy chemicals that homeowners may want to avoid. Options include materials with recycled content or that comes from nearby, which limits the amount of resources consumed.
Source: ConsumerReports.org
